Mirrors are helpful in our homes; they show and tell without speaking, but their reflections say a lot. Imagine staying alone in a house without a mirror, and you just had your oily breakfast with maybe fried eggs or pancakes, spilt some syrup on your shirt, and quickly rushed out of the house because you were late. The worst part is that you may have a board meeting with some investors. Well! It is not on our watch, but with PBX Glass and Mirror, we make sure we serve and deliver. Say bye to walking out of the house without seeing how you look.
Understanding the type of glass when choosing a mirror
Glass is essential when selecting a mirror because it influences its appeal and effectiveness. There are clear float glass, low iron glass and tinted glass.
Clear float
This is the most common type of mirror, and it is used in many places, such as barber shops, hair salons, and even homes. It is commonly used because of its qualities, such as durability and clarity, which provide clear reflections.
Low-iron glass
Although it has extreme clarity and superior transparency, it is more expensive because of its properties. However, unlike clear float glass, it does not require high maintenance.
Mirrored glass
This is a simple give-away. It is sometimes called a one-way glass. Unlike other transparent glasses on both sides, this one is transparent on one side and reflective on the other.
Tinted glass
Last but not least, tinted glass is more like regular clear float glass with some added tinting colourants; the only minor difference is the pricing.
When people talk about glasses, the first thing that comes to mind is the clear float glass which is commonly used for windows but little do they know that these are classified and differentiated according to their properties and durability.
Different mirrors for different aesthetics:
Choosing the type of glass you want to use for your mirror depends on what you want it for; for example, some mirrors are meant to be a part of a decorative piece in a house. If it is just for everyday use, soda lime is your go-to because that’s the most common glass used for mirrors, or clear float can also work. If you are looking for something aesthetically pleasing for a decoration piece at home, then lead glass is highly recommended because of its decorative effects.
How a mirror is made
Careful measures are taken during the production of a mirror.
1. The glass is cleaned and flattened until smooth.
2. Silver or aluminium is applied to the back of the glass. Depending on the coating material, this layer should be either thick or thin.
3. Use another material to coat it to sustain it for an extended period.
4. Use acid wash and heat treat the glass for the final process.
The making of glass requires experts and experienced people. Making a mirror is not a layman’s job because many incidents or accidents may occur during production, especially if you are not experienced. Chemicals and other dangerous elements are handled. The most simple task you need to do is purchase an already-made mirror to save you from all the hustle and bustle.